How to fix leaky vehicles without breaking the bank

HORSHAM, Pa., March 20, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- MS -- Fluid leaks are one of the more routine problems that plague older vehicles. While leaks are not necessarily a sign of doom and gloom, they tend to distress vehicle owners and can affect drivability. In addition, automotive fluids that seep out of vehicles can prove harmful to the environment.

Leaks may not be a concern for drivers of new vehicles, but studies show that drivers are keeping their vehicles for longer than ever before, suggesting that leaks are becoming a greater issue for more and more motorists. A 2016 study from the Institute for Highway Safety found that the average age of vehicles on the road in the United States is nearly 12 years.

Fortunately, leaks can be a relatively simple fix, which should assuage any fears drivers may have as the numbers on their odometers continue to rise.

Identifying leaks Identifying leaks is the first step toward fixing them. According to CRC Industries, a global leader in specialty maintenance and repair chemicals, including K&W brand Stop Leak products, the simplest way to identify which fluid is leaking is to determine its color. CRC notes that red fluid suggests a leak in the power steering system or transmission, while black fluid typically indicates old oil or transmission fluid that has gone bad. If the leaky fluid is green or yellow, then it's likely engine coolant.

Fixing leaks Once drivers have identified which fluid is leaking, they can then take steps to fix the leak. Unlike other problems that plague older vehicles, leaks can typically be fixed quickly and affordably.

"Stop leak products can really save the day, especially if the leak means that you have to stop driving the vehicle," says CRC Technical Service Manager Scott Brownstein. "Our K&W Stop Leak solutions are designed to provide faster, less expensive alternatives for drivers who may be facing costly mechanical repairs."

Stop leak products can be especially valuable to drivers of older vehicles, who may not want to pay for repairs that could very well exceed the value of their cars and trucks. In addition, replacement parts for older vehicles are oftentimes not readily available. In such instances, stop leak products can help drivers keep their cars on the road until replacement parts are found. Stop leak products also can be valuable in the face of emergencies.

As more and more drivers look to extend the life of their vehicles, leaks figure to factor more heavily in the lives of motorists. Addressing such leaks can be easy, quick and affordable. Learn more about fixing leaks at www.stopautoleaks.com/metroprn.